A Luxurious Day of Food, Wine and Romance in Barcelona

Barcelona is an international, cosmopolitan city that blurs the lines between quaint Mediterranean port and modern, bustling metropolis. The life style of a vacation by the sea in Barcelona is sublime, with the important things coming first—food, fun, and relaxation. Find pleasure and balance between the constant stimuli of the urban landscape and the delight of discovering ancient secrets around every cobble-stoned corner. The heart of the city is small and best seen on foot, and as you walk hand in hand along avenues that have seen over two millennia of romance—among flower stalls and medieval archways—you too will surely carve your own, lasting moment into the history of Barcelona. Fore this is a city that vibrates with countless love stories and majestic visages of mighty empires come and gone.

It is no surprise that Barcelona is one of the top ten most visited cities in the world, with some 8.41 million international travelers soaking up the sun or wandering through the narrow alleys of the Catalan capital in 2013. However, the true beauty of Barcelona isn’t found on the beach, nor a bus tour, nor in a crowded museum, but in the quiet moments that fill each day. Many moving, peaceful tableaus can be found just a stone’s throw from the throngs of tourists that easily sour a potentially romantic, profound experience. Winter is a wonderful time to visit Barcelona, as the crowds are few and the sky is clear. Though the beach will surely be deserted, the ability to blend into the scenery and enjoy a truly romantic escape is invaluable.

The Hotel Neri is a four-star property and a member of the Relais & Châteaux fellowship of independently-owned luxury boutique hotels. Located in the subdued Plaza of Felip Neri, the sleek hotel structure spans over 900 years. Originally a medieval palace, the understated and elegant building incorporates mid-20th century architecture as well, with reformed walls that were partially destroyed in 1938 by street warfare and aerial bombings during the height of the Spanish Civil War. The Plaza of Felip Neri is a surprising bastion of calm, with its quiet fountain and war-scared, Baroque church façade from the end of the 18th century. It’s an inexplicably-sacred place of hushed conversations and reflection just three minutes walk from the soaring cathedral of Barcelona, and the busy Plaça Nova. Enjoy reading the daily news in the tranquil hotel lounge—or on their terrace under flowering trees of Spring and Summer—while awaiting the arrival of your local cooking teacher and guide for the day.

In keeping with the relaxed pace of life in the city, work doesn’t start as early here as it may in other parts of the world. If you want to seize the day, seize it (but don’t bother getting out of bed before 9am). In nearly all cases, to know food is to know culture, and what better way to experience true, authentic Spanish and Catalan cuisine than to cook it yourself!

Your days begins with Catavino’s private, luxury gourmet market tour and exclusive cooking lesson in a beautiful teaching kitchen with views of the Ramblas and the historic Liceu Opera House. Begin your romantic adventure at 10:00 AM when your Spanish chef comes to collect you at your hotel.

The tour starts off with an intimate look at the inside workings of the famous Boqueria; one of the most internationally-regarded fresh markets in the world. Accompany your chef in purchasing the beautiful fruits, vegetables, and seafood that you will soon be masterfully preparing, while learning about the generations of vendors and the multitude of colorful products that make city’s oldest market a true, kaleidoscopic wonder. See the market through the eyes of a local culinary professional and learn to discern the finest Iberian ham, freshest fish, ripest tomatoes, most delicate olives, tastiest wild mushrooms, and deeply aromatic spices. Stop off for a light, traditional Spanish breakfast of flaky pastry and rich espresso before leaving the market for a relaxing stroll through the narrow streets of old Barcelona that will inspire your inner gourmand.

Before cooking your Spanish lunch, visit one of Europe’s oldest dry good and sundry shops, bursting with roasted nuts still warm from the fire, dried fruits, and dark coffees before taking a seat at the city’s most impressive bodega and specialty shop to whet your appetite with a tasting of local cheeses and unique wines.

Back in the bright teaching kitchen, get right into your meal preparation under the relaxed guidance of your friendly teacher, laughing and learning as you cook a seasonal appetizer, traditional paella, and an authentic Catalan dessert (all to be enjoyed with more Spanish wine and a couple special snacks along the way). After your much-deserved meal, stroll back up Las Ramblas and buy a bundle of perfumed lilies for your sweetie while supporting the local vendors on the Rambla de las Flores who have made florist their trade for generations. Finally, a quick stop at the nearly 200-year-old Fargas chocolate shop on Carrer de la Portaferrissa for some hand-made confections will round out your romantic afternoon before a much-deserved siesta back at the hotel.

Awake, once again fresh to the world, at 6:00pm and catch a quick taxi to the Mirablau bar and restaurant for classic cocktails and unbelievable, breathtaking views of Barcelona at dusk. Perched on the sloping neighborhoods of mount Tibidabo, from the panoramic lounge of Mirablau you can gaze down upon the whole of Barcelona, the sparkling Mediterranean unfolding below you. Watch the day gently fade to night as the sun slowly sets. Imagine the glow of thousands of soft, gas lights from eras passed, spreading through the darkened valley, igniting passions and inspiring hearts as you savor the splendid simplicity of a moment shared with the one you love.

At the foot of Mount Tibidabo, among the beautiful Jardins de la Tamarita gardens and the impressive, turn-of-the-century mansions of Barcelona’s industrialist era, is the ultra-luxury Hotel and Restaurant ABaC with the two-Michelin-star kitchen of Catalan chef-icon Jordi Cruz. Reservations for dinner begin at 8:30pm and the Grand Tasting Menu is the meal of a lifetime—modernist gastronomy melding the products and dishes of Catalunya with refined French technique and exotica flavors of the Far East over some 12 courses. Request pairings from their nearly 1000-bottle catalogue.

After dinner, head back down into the city center, change into something comfortable, and take a nighttime walk through the Gothic and Born neighborhoods to Aire de Barcelona. An authentic, candle-lit Arab bathhouse—or Hammam—, Aire de Barcelona is true luxury and a perfect way to end an amazing day of adventure. Steamy thermal baths, aroma therapy, beauty treatments, and a relaxing massage are at your disposal. Open until 2 am on the weekends, take the time to lose yourself in infinite bliss. If you’re ready for bed, retire after your final massage to the comfort of the Hotel Neri. If not, head to the Cafe Royale for excellent live music every day of the week and dance the night away in Barcelona’s buzzing Plaça Reial, among the lights and sounds and palm trees of the heart of the Gothic quarter. Enjoy a crisp gin and tonic and let the enchanting Barcelona night cast its intoxicating spell.

Barcelona is a romantic city on any day of the week, at any time of the year, but when a truly special occasion arrives, the luxury that the best of the city has to offer will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

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This team is first class, they are knowledgeable of all areas of wine, and the Douro. If you are looking for something to do when in Porto I cant recommend their tours enough - first class.
Many places here say they offer the authentic version of Porto, but rarely do - these tours go into places that others don't, they bust the myths of wine, Port and give you the real insights, show you the faces behind the wine.
The tours offered here give you something that is unique, filled with passion and love for this wonderful city and surrounding areas.

Anita Breland

13:51 19 Sep 17

Looking to enjoy a great excursion through some of the world's most beautiful vineyards? Our group's tour off the beaten path with Catavino was a carefree day of discovery in fine company, and with memorable food and wine. A big plus was an opportunity to spend time with a winemaker happy to share his family story, expertise and excellent wine. I cannot think of a better way to experience the authentic Douro!

Cornell Anderson

11:23 04 Oct 17

We just completed a Fall Harvest tour that was organized and led by Catavino Tours. The entire experience was wonderful and met all of our expectations. The tour included several days in and near Lisbon, and then five days in Porto and the wineries and vineyards along the Douro River. All aspects of the tour were planned to provide an exceptional experience for our group of eleven friends. Our tour guide, Ryan Opaz, was extremely knowledgeable about the wines, the Quintas, the history of Port and Portuguese table wine and the country of Portugal. Finally, the food was amazing and included several dinners and lunches with wine makers who were personally know by Ryan. The tour and experience could not have been better!

Julie Dawn Fox

14:18 21 Sep 17

Just spent a wonderful day in the Douro wine region with the Catavino team and a local winemaker. We had breathtaking views of a side of the Douro that most visitors don't get to see, knowledgeable explanations of the grapes, wines and processes and of course, delicious table and port wines, some poured straight from the barrel. The highlight of the day was the chance to join the Purple Foot Club by treading grapes in stone tanks.

Flavio Bastos Amiel

09:53 19 Sep 17

Yesterday we had the chance to visit a few places in the Douro with Catavino. We had the chance to meet one very young producer (Oscar Quevedo: thanks!) who did a complete tour through one of his vineyards and educated us on the different types of grapes the Douro has to offer and how the wine in this winery is made. The highlight was a great food experience in the winery while staring at the amazing Douro landscape, while sipping whites, red and port wine from the same house. Thanks!!

Tom Fakler

09:26 15 Nov 17

Outstanding day trip from Porto with Catavino!
We spent a day off the beaten path in the Douro wine region and its spectacular scenery. We visited a winery where the vintner gave us the most authentic and informative tour of the vineyards and wine cellar we have had. We tasted this year’s new wine and port from a 10,000-liter cask. We had a gourmet lunch with wines perfectly paired.
Our tour was in the harvest season and we were able to participate in the traditional stomping of grapes in a granite lagar. It was a fun time for all!
Catavino and team know the area and vintners well, and this made our day truly special.

David Waldschmidt

15:35 15 Oct 17

My wife and I had a first rate experience touring the wine country in Portugal. Catavino Tours organized the trip for us and friends. The tour was organized down to the most specific details permitting us an experience unencumbered with worry or stress. Best of all, Catavino is extremely well versed in the wine business, the wine country and the people behind the wineries. As a result, we were treated to experiences and face to face interactions that we would never have had on our own or with someone less tied into the art of making wine.

Penedes Wine Tour

About Sam Zucker

Sam is originally from Boston, MA. USA. He studied ecology and Spanish language during his undergraduate degree at Hampshire College (Amherst, MA). He then went on to train as a chef at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America (Hyde Park, NY) and earn an introductory certification from the Court of Master Sommeliers in 2013. He currently lives in Barcelona, Catalunya, Spain and works as a Community Manager and Content Creator for a Barcelona-based Social Media agency. He also is an active culinary tour operator specialized in historic gastronomy tours of Barcelona, and works as a freelance food/travel writer for several outlets. Find his Blog: Zucker & Spice Travel. Follow his Barcelona lifestyle on Instagram: @saz444 and Snapchat: @sam_zucker

Facebook reviews

What an amazing trip with a fantastic group of people. It was an education about wine we couldn't have experienced anywhere else. Our guide, Ryan Opaz, was extremely knowledgable and brought great enthusiasm to the experience.read more

Fantastic tour of the Portugal wine country organized and conducted by the Catavino team. Echoing the comments of the previous reviews below, my wife and I experienced one memorable experience topped each day by the next memorable experience. A week of friendship, learning and interacting all in an environment that was stimulating and stress free. Kudos to Catavino for a wonderful and supremely well organized trip.read more

Having recently completed Catavino's 2017 Custom Harvest Tour, I am still basking in the afterglow of a full week of cushy hotels, beautiful landscapes, long, succulent dinners highlighting the depth of Portuguese cuisine, and, of course, the spectacular wines from the best regions of Portugal. Catavino has crafted a harvest experience that uniquely capitalizes on Ryan's personal relationships with some of Portugal's preeminent winemakers. This allows us into their cellars for intimate tastings and onto their terraces for wonderful lunches personally hosted by the owners and winemakers. It is a wonderful learning experience for novices and wine geeks alike. Ryan is a great host, and his knowledge and insights add immensely to the experience. This was my second Harvest Tour with Catavino and they continue to deliver a very satisfying week of Portuguese culture, food and wine. A short review can't do justice to a week long trip. I highly recommend that you sign on to one of their trips and find out for yourself!read more

Our Fall Harvest trip through the Douro valley led by Ryan Opaz and organized by the talented team at Catavino was truly a once in a lifetime experience (well maybe twice)! This was an ongoing visual and sensory experience from start to finish with several “pinch yourself” moments along the way. Like most learning experiences I feel like I’ve retained a fraction of what I learned about the wines and cuisine or Portugal. I guess that’s a reason to do it againread more

We just completed a Fall Harvest tour that was organized and led by Catavino Tours. The entire experience was wonderful and met all of our expectations. The tour included several days in and near Lisbon, and then five days in Porto and the wineries and vineyards along the Douro River. All aspects of the tour were planned to provide an exceptional experience for our group of eleven friends. Our tour guide, Ryan Opaz, was extremely knowledgeable about the wines, the Quintas, the history of Port and Portuguese table wine and the country of Portugal. Finally, the food was amazing and included several dinners and lunches with wine makers who were personally know by Ryan. The tour and experience could not have been better!read more

The Catavino team is world class. A tour with them is guaranteed to be something that you won't forget.
They show you a true picture of what goes on, busting myths about the wine and port industry to show you the real side of Douro. Their level of knowledge is incredible, and we had access to wine tasting, grape stomping and meet the faces behind the wine industry. I can't even begin to describe the amazing lunch at the farm, overlooking the most spectacular views that only the Douro provides - breath taking!!
It is guaranteed to be filled with passion and love, leaving you with a yearning to come back time and time again.
Can't recommend this enough.read more

My husband and I had a wonderful day on a private tour with Ryan throughout the Douro Valley. He is extremely knowledgeable and helped us learn to appreciate Port. Beyond the wonderful private tasting sessions, he also brought us to a delicious lunch at a local Portuguese restaurant. Throughout the entire day, he provided us with tips and recommendations for the remainder of our journey throughout Portugal. The whole day was the highlight of our trip! We would HIGHLY recommend it!read more

Incredible experience in a beautiful city. Mariana was an amazing guide - we learned so much, sampled some amazing food, and had fun doing it. Two couples were with our 15- and 17-month-old boys and we never felt rushed or out of place. Highly recommend!read more

Ana arranged a trip for my client through Portugal. My client is a single woman traveling alone and she had the time of her life! I felt very good about having her in Catavino's hands. Thank you for introducing her to Portugal in such a wonderful manner.read more

I can only second the comments written here. Catavino is highly professional and will stop at nothing to give you an incredible, unforgettable time. All the biggest highlights from my recent trip to Portugal and Spain were made possible by Catavino. I know how much work goes into it- thank you so much Ryan and team. I'd trust you with my holidays any time.read more

We were part of the 2016 Harvest Tour and had the experience of a lifetime! The Douro Valley is breathtakingly beautiful and our guides were wonderful. Ryan and Gabriella must have called in all of their personal favors because we met and drank wine with many winemakers, a wine shop owner and tasted '72 port which Oscar Quevedo's grandfather had made. Doesn't get any more special than that! Of course, gourmet food at every meal as well. We'll be back!!read more

When there were hiccups in the itinerary; Catavino was nothing but gracious. They understood what our visit meant to us & offered us fantastic guides & activities. We ooh'ed & aah'ed, ate & drank almost too well (!) & we laughed for days. Deep thanks.read more

No enough words, even for a wordsmith like me, to say how wonderful it was spending time with Gabriella and Ryan. Our tour with Ryan as our guide to the Douro Valley was spectacular. Excellent wines, wonderful views, terrific people and a delightful lunch topped off with a lovely boat ride. Highly recommended!!read more

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Google Reviews

This team is first class, they are knowledgeable of all areas of wine, and the Douro. If you are looking for something to do when in Porto I cant recommend their tours enough - first class.
Many places here say they offer the authentic version of Porto, but rarely do - these tours go into places that others don't, they bust the myths of wine, Port and give you the real insights, show you the faces behind the wine.
The tours offered here give you something that is unique, filled with passion and love for this wonderful city and surrounding areas.

Anita Breland

13:51 19 Sep 17

Looking to enjoy a great excursion through some of the world's most beautiful vineyards? Our group's tour off the beaten path with Catavino was a carefree day of discovery in fine company, and with memorable food and wine. A big plus was an opportunity to spend time with a winemaker happy to share his family story, expertise and excellent wine. I cannot think of a better way to experience the authentic Douro!

Cornell Anderson

11:23 04 Oct 17

We just completed a Fall Harvest tour that was organized and led by Catavino Tours. The entire experience was wonderful and met all of our expectations. The tour included several days in and near Lisbon, and then five days in Porto and the wineries and vineyards along the Douro River. All aspects of the tour were planned to provide an exceptional experience for our group of eleven friends. Our tour guide, Ryan Opaz, was extremely knowledgeable about the wines, the Quintas, the history of Port and Portuguese table wine and the country of Portugal. Finally, the food was amazing and included several dinners and lunches with wine makers who were personally know by Ryan. The tour and experience could not have been better!

Julie Dawn Fox

14:18 21 Sep 17

Just spent a wonderful day in the Douro wine region with the Catavino team and a local winemaker. We had breathtaking views of a side of the Douro that most visitors don't get to see, knowledgeable explanations of the grapes, wines and processes and of course, delicious table and port wines, some poured straight from the barrel. The highlight of the day was the chance to join the Purple Foot Club by treading grapes in stone tanks.

Flavio Bastos Amiel

09:53 19 Sep 17

Yesterday we had the chance to visit a few places in the Douro with Catavino. We had the chance to meet one very young producer (Oscar Quevedo: thanks!) who did a complete tour through one of his vineyards and educated us on the different types of grapes the Douro has to offer and how the wine in this winery is made. The highlight was a great food experience in the winery while staring at the amazing Douro landscape, while sipping whites, red and port wine from the same house. Thanks!!

Tom Fakler

09:26 15 Nov 17

Outstanding day trip from Porto with Catavino!
We spent a day off the beaten path in the Douro wine region and its spectacular scenery. We visited a winery where the vintner gave us the most authentic and informative tour of the vineyards and wine cellar we have had. We tasted this year’s new wine and port from a 10,000-liter cask. We had a gourmet lunch with wines perfectly paired.
Our tour was in the harvest season and we were able to participate in the traditional stomping of grapes in a granite lagar. It was a fun time for all!
Catavino and team know the area and vintners well, and this made our day truly special.

David Waldschmidt

15:35 15 Oct 17

My wife and I had a first rate experience touring the wine country in Portugal. Catavino Tours organized the trip for us and friends. The tour was organized down to the most specific details permitting us an experience unencumbered with worry or stress. Best of all, Catavino is extremely well versed in the wine business, the wine country and the people behind the wineries. As a result, we were treated to experiences and face to face interactions that we would never have had on our own or with someone less tied into the art of making wine.